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Microchip Technology 25C160-E/P
- Part No.:
- 25C160-E/P
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Memory
- Package:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
25C160-E/P.pdf
- Description:
- IC EEPROM 16KBIT SPI 3MHZ 8DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:1,055
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Product details
Overview
25C160-E/P from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 16 Kbit (2048 × 8) SPI Serial EEPROM with automotive-grade extended temperature operation (−40°C to +125°C), 3 MHz max clock frequency, and 8-pin PDIP package. It features hardware write protection via WP pin, HOLD suspend functionality, and 16-byte page write capability - deployed in engine control units, battery management systems, and industrial sensor nodes requiring nonvolatile data retention under thermal stress.
For engineers reviewing the 25C160-E/P datasheet, 25C160-E/P pinout, 25C160-E/P application, or 25C160-E/P equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, validated SPI timing constraints, confirmed automotive temp-range compliance, and real-world use context for embedded firmware storage and calibration parameter retention.
Technical Context
The 25C160-E/P implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 (CPOL=0, CPHA=0) interface with separate SI/SO lines, CS-controlled selection, and HOLD-driven transaction suspension. Its internal architecture includes a status register with WIP/WEL/BP0/BP1 bits, programmable block protection (none/1/4/1/2/all), and a write-enable latch reset on power-up or WRDI.
It operates exclusively at VCC = 4.5V–5.5V and supports only the automotive temperature range (−40°C to +125°C). All AC timing parameters - including TCSH (250 ns min), THS (100 ns min), and TWC (5 ms max) - are specified and tested under these exact voltage and temperature conditions.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Memory size | 16 Kbit (2048 × 8-bit organization), sufficient for firmware boot flags, sensor calibration tables, and device configuration registers |
| Interface | SPI-compatible serial bus (Mode 0,0), requiring only CS, SCK, SI, SO, WP, and HOLD - no I²C or parallel bus overhead |
| Max clock frequency | 3 MHz at VCC = 4.5–5.5V, enabling ~384 KB/s theoretical read throughput for rapid parameter loading |
| Write cycle time | 5 ms maximum internal write time per page or byte, deterministic for timeout-based firmware polling of WIP bit |
| Endurance & retention | 1 million erase/write cycles and >200 years data retention - validated for lifetime logging in automotive ECUs |
| Operating temperature | −40°C to +125°C (Automotive E grade), qualified per AEC-Q100 stress test conditions for under-hood deployment |
| Supply voltage | 4.5V to 5.5V only - incompatible with 3.3V or 2.5V systems; requires level-shifting or dedicated 5V rail |
Pinout & Package
8-pin PDIP (300 mil body), JEDEC MS-001 compliant, through-hole mountable. Pin 1 marked by notch or dot; lead finish is matte tin.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 CS | Chip Select Input | Active-low enable: drives device into active mode; high state forces standby and tri-states SO for bus sharing |
| 2 SO | Serial Data Output | CMOS output, data shifted out on SCK falling edge; high-impedance when CS high or HOLD low |
| 3 WP | Write-Protect Pin | Hardware lock: disables Status register writes when WPEN=1 and WP=low; no effect if WPEN=0 |
| 4 VSS | Ground | Reference return path for all digital and analog functions; must be low-impedance connection to system GND plane |
| 5 SI | Serial Data Input | Latches instruction/address/data on SCK rising edge; accepts standard SPI MOSI signals without translation |
| 6 SCK | Serial Clock Input | Synchronizes all transfers; max 3 MHz rate defined only at 4.5–5.5V and −40°C to +125°C |
| 7 HOLD | Hold Input | Suspends ongoing SPI sequence (e.g., during MCU interrupt servicing); requires SCK=low to assert/deassert |
| 8 VCC | Supply Voltage | 5V nominal input; absolute max 7.0V; must be decoupled with ≥100 nF ceramic capacitor near pin |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Page write capability | 16-byte page buffer enables burst programming of calibration data without 5 ms penalty per byte |
| Block write protection | Configurable via BP1/BP0 bits to protect 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of memory - prevents accidental overwrites of critical firmware sectors |
| HOLD suspend function | Pauses SPI transfer mid-sequence without losing address pointer or requiring reinitialization - essential for real-time interrupt handling |
| Power-on data protection | Write enable latch resets at power-up; WREN instruction required before any write - eliminates spurious writes during brown-out |
| ESD robustness | 4 kV HBM rating on all pins ensures reliability in manufacturing, assembly, and field service environments |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) | Industrial Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Storing ignition timing maps, fuel trim coefficients, and fault code history across vehicle life cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile parameter storage with deterministic 5 ms write latency and AEC-Q100-compliant thermal endurance. Use Value: Enables zero-battery-loss recalibration after ECU replacement and maintains traceable diagnostic logs for OBD-II compliance. |
Use Scenario: Retaining ladder logic configuration, I/O mapping, and runtime counters during factory power interruptions. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SPI-configurable EEPROM interfacing directly with PLC microcontroller's hardware SPI peripheral. Use Value: Eliminates need for external backup batteries or supercapacitors while supporting >1M reprogramming cycles over 15+ year deployments. |
| Smart Energy Meter | Medical Infusion Pump |
Use Scenario: Recording cumulative kWh consumption, tariff schedules, and tamper-event timestamps in utility-grade meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability data logger with >200-year retention and hardware write-lock for regulatory audit trails. Use Value: Meets ANSI C12.1 and IEC 62056 requirements for secure, unalterable energy usage records without FRAM cost premium. |
Use Scenario: Storing drug library profiles, dose limits, and calibration offsets in Class II medical devices requiring FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure configuration store with WP-enabled protection against runtime firmware corruption. Use Value: Supports ALARM-ON-WRITE safety interlocks and provides auditable memory access logs via RDSR status monitoring. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar SPI EEPROM applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25AA160T-I/SN | 1.8–5.5V supply, −40°C to +85°C, SOIC package, 1 MHz max clock | Industrial temp only; lower voltage flexibility but reduced speed and temp range vs. 25C160-E/P | Select for cost-sensitive industrial designs where 5V rail unavailable and automotive temp not required |
| 25LC160T-I/SN | 2.5–5.5V supply, −40°C to +85°C, SOIC package, 2 MHz max clock | Broader VCC range than 25C160-E/P but lacks extended temp rating and 3 MHz performance | Choose when operating at 3.3V is mandatory and automotive qualification is unnecessary |
Compared with 25AA160T-I/SN and 25LC160T-I/SN, the 25C160-E/P uniquely delivers 3 MHz SPI speed *and* −40°C to +125°C operation at 4.5–5.5V - making it the sole option among these three for under-hood automotive modules requiring both high-speed parameter updates and extreme thermal resilience.
Availability
25C160-E/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for engine control units, industrial PLCs, smart energy meters, and medical infusion pumps requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for 25C160-E/P includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Microchip Technology Inc. is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, with global design centers and ISO/TS 16949-certified manufacturing.
The 25C160-E/P belongs to Microchip's legacy SPI EEPROM product line, engineered specifically for automotive and industrial applications demanding guaranteed operation at 125°C ambient and robust immunity to power-supply transients.
FAQ
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 25C160-E/P?
The 25C160-E/P supports a maximum clock frequency of 3 MHz, but only when operated within its specified conditions: VCC = 4.5V to 5.5V and temperature = −40°C to +125°C. This rating is not valid at lower voltages or outside the automotive temperature range. The 25C160-E/P datasheet (DS21231E, Table 1-2) confirms this value under "AC Characteristics" for the Automotive (E) grade.
Does the 25C160-E/P support 3.3V operation?
No, the 25C160-E/P does not support 3.3V operation. Its absolute minimum VCC is 4.5V, and it is rated only for 4.5V–5.5V supply. Attempting to operate the 25C160-E/P below 4.5V may result in unreliable reads, failed writes, or undefined status register behavior. For 3.3V systems, consider the 25LC160 or 25AA160 families instead.
How does the HOLD pin function during an active SPI transaction on the 25C160-E/P?
When the HOLD pin is pulled low during an active SPI sequence (with CS low and SCK low), the 25C160-E/P suspends communication: SI, SO, and SCK are driven to high-impedance, and the internal address pointer is preserved. Communication resumes from the exact point of suspension when HOLD is returned high while SCK remains low. This behavior is documented in Section 2.6 and Figure 1-1 of the 25C160-E/P datasheet.
What memory protection mechanisms are implemented in the 25C160-E/P?
The 25C160-E/P implements three layered protections: (1) a write-enable latch (WEL) that must be set via WREN before any write, (2) a hardware write-protect pin (WP) enabled only when WPEN=1 in the status register, and (3) block protection (BP1/BP0) allowing 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of the array to be locked. All are detailed in Sections 2.3, 3.5, and 3.6 of the 25C160-E/P datasheet.
Is the 25C160-E/P recommended for new designs?
No - the 25C160-E/P is explicitly marked "Not recommended for new designs" in the official Microchip datasheet (DS21231E, page 1). Microchip recommends migrating to the 25AA160A/B or 25LC160A/B families, which offer enhanced reliability, improved ESD ratings, and active product support. However, the 25C160-E/P remains available for legacy repair, obsolescence mitigation, and existing production continuity.
25C160-E/P Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Verified
- Memory Type:
- Non-Volatile
- Memory Format:
- EEPROM
- Technology:
- EEPROM
- Memory Size:
- 16Kbit
- Memory Organization:
- 2K x 8
- Memory Interface:
- SPI
- Clock Frequency:
- 3 MHz
- Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:
- 5ms
- Access Time:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 4.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-PDIP
25C160-E/P FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 25C160-E/P through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 25C160-E/P on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for 25C160-E/P reliable?
The price and inventory of 25C160-E/P are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 25C160-E/P is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 25C160-E/P?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 25C160-E/P transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 25C160-E/P?
25C160-E/P orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 25C160-E/P order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 25C160-E/P?
For technical support, including 25C160-E/P datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 25C160-E/P requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 25C160-E/P is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 25C160-E/P products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 25C160-E/P meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 25C160-E/P?
All 25C160-E/P units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 25C160-E/P, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The 25C160-E/P part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 25C160-E/P:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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